Things To Do
in Greymouth
Greymouth is a small town on the west coast of New Zealand's South Island. It is known for its rugged coastline, wild beaches, and stunning sunsets over the Tasman Sea. The town is surrounded by lush rainforests and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
Greymouth also has a rich mining history, with remnants of old coal mines still visible in the area.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with breakfast at a local café. Then, visit the stunning Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes to see nature's incredible formations.
Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast, stopping for photos at scenic viewpoints. Have lunch in Punakaiki before heading back to Greymouth.
Wind down with dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Enjoy the sunset views over the Tasman Sea.
Catch the TranzAlpine train for a breathtaking journey through the Southern Alps. Enjoy a light breakfast onboard as you soak in the views.
Arrive in Christchurch for lunch and explore the city before taking the train back to Greymouth. Don't forget to take pictures at iconic spots.
Relax back in Greymouth with a casual dinner. Reflect on your journey through the stunning landscapes of New Zealand.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes including the Tasman Sea and the Southern Alps.
- Rich history and culture, particularly related to mining and indigenous Māori heritage.
- Outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby national parks.
- Small-town charm with a tight-knit community and lower population density.
- Access to some unique attractions like the Pancake Rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki.
- Limited job opportunities and economic development due to its small size.
- Potentially harsh weather conditions, including rain and storms, can affect tourism and daily life.
- Fewer amenities and services compared to larger cities, which may not suit everyone's lifestyle.
- Isolation from major urban centers can make travel and access to certain services more challenging.
- Limited public transportation options, which may require having a car to get around.
Best Activities in Greymouth
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the iconic Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki. The unique limestone formations and spectacular blowholes are best seen during high tide.
Explore the breathtaking Hokitika Gorge with its stunning turquoise waters and lush rainforest. Enjoy walking trails and a swing bridge for incredible views.
Relax or fish at the Greymouth River Mouth. This spot is perfect for birdwatching, with various species native to the West Coast.
Take a guided tour of Monteith's Brewery and learn about the brewing process while enjoying tastings outside in the brewery garden.
Cycle or walk the West Coast Wilderness Trail, a scenic route that takes you through stunning landscapes, wetlands, and coastal views.
Hike the Cape Foulwind Walkway for panoramic views of the coastline and the chance to see seals at the seal colony.
Enjoy an easy stroll along the Greymouth Coastal Walk, featuring beautiful views of the ocean and access to various beaches.
Explore the caves at Punakaiki Cavern. Guided tours allow you to discover the fascinating geology and underground wonders.
Tours
Uncover the best of Greymouth with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Greymouth
Visit one of these nice places.
This lookout offers panoramic views of Greymouth and the surrounding landscape, including the Tasman Sea and the Southern Alps, making it a perfect spot for capturing breathtaking photos.
The estuary provides stunning views of the river meeting the ocean, vibrant sunsets, and diverse birdlife, ideal for nature photographers and sunset enthusiasts.
This scenic coastal walk features breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the Tasman Sea, providing numerous spots for capturing the stunning landscape and coastal vistas.
This beach offers dramatic views of the ocean, unique rock formations, and is especially great during sunset for capturing striking photographs.
Located a short drive from Greymouth, Knights Point provides spectacular coastal views and is a great location for photography with dramatic cliffs and the ocean.
These historical sites near Greymouth not only offer insight into local culture but also showcase stunning rock formations and scenic backdrops for photography.
Food in Greymouth
Greymouth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try delicacy made from local West Coast whitebait, often served with lemon wedges and salad. Head to local cafes and seafood restaurants like The Paroa Hotel to savor this specialty.
Must-Try!
Locally caught whitebait is a seasonal delicacy best enjoyed simply pan-fried with a squeeze of lemon. Look for it at waterfront eateries such as Monteith's Brewery Bar.
Pāua, or abalone, is a treasured seafood in New Zealand. Try it in fritter form at iconic spots like Speights Ale House for a taste of the ocean.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Known for its delicious pub grub and artisanal beers, Monteith's offers a laid-back setting perfect for savoring local flavors. Try their seafood options for a true taste of Greymouth.
Visit the Saturday market for a vibrant array of local produce, artisanal food products, and street food stalls offering diverse culinary delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greymouth is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. It's important to show respect for the environment by not littering, following designated paths, and adhering to local conservation guidelines to protect the area's beauty.
The Ngai Tahu iwi (tribe) is the local Maori community. Showing respect for their culture and traditions is vital. This can include learning a few words in Te Reo Māori and being respectful when visiting culturally significant sites.
The locals in Greymouth are known for their friendliness. A simple smile or greeting can go a long way. Engaging in polite conversation is appreciated, but be mindful of personal space and privacy.
Safety
Tipping in Greymouth
Ensure a smooth experience
In Greymouth, New Zealand, tipping is not a common practice. Service staff are generally paid a fair wage, and tipping is not expected. However, it may be appreciated in some situations, such as for exceptional service at restaurants or cafes.
In Greymouth, various payment methods are widely accepted, including cash, credit cards, and mobile payments. Most establishments, from restaurants to shops, accept cards, and ATMs are available throughout the town. Contactless payments have also become increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February is summer in Greymouth. Visitors can expect warm temperatures, averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F). It's a great time for outdoor activities such as beach visits, hiking, and exploring the coastline.
March to May is autumn, where temperatures cool down to around 15-20°C (59-68°F). This season offers vibrant foliage, and it's an excellent time for photography and enjoying scenic walks. Rainfall begins to increase.
June to August is winter in Greymouth. Expect cooler temperatures, averaging 5-15°C (41-59°F) and increased rainfall. While it may be too cold for some outdoor activities, winter is perfect for enjoying indoor attractions and cozying up at local cafes.
September to November is spring, with temperatures gradually warming to around 10-18°C (50-64°F). This season brings blooming flowers, and it's a great time for nature walks and bird watching, though it can still be quite rainy.
Greymouth at Night
Hiking in Greymouth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail that takes you through lush rainforests with views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.
An easy walk that features stunning limestone formations and blowholes along the rugged West Coast coastline.
Offers a range of hiking trails, including the famous Paparoa Track, where hikers can experience diverse landscapes and unique flora and fauna.
A beautiful walk along the shores of Lake Brunner, providing opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying tranquil lake views.
A more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the West Coast and the surrounding area.
Aiports
How to reach Greymouth by plane.
The largest airport in the South Island of New Zealand, located approximately 250 kilometers southeast of Greymouth.
An international airport located approximately 400 kilometers southeast of Greymouth, popular for access to ski resorts and adventure tourism.
The main airport serving New Zealand's capital city, located around 400 kilometers northeast of Greymouth.
New Zealand's largest and busiest airport, located approximately 800 kilometers to the north of Greymouth.
An international airport located around 330 kilometers to the southeast of Greymouth.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Greymouth, consisting mainly of people of European descent, particularly those with British ancestry.
The indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, making up a significant portion of the population in Greymouth.
This group includes people from various Pacific nations, contributing to the cultural diversity of Greymouth.
Comprising a smaller segment of the population, this group includes individuals of Asian descent, such as those from Chinese and Indian backgrounds.
Includes other demographic groups not specified above, such as those of Middle Eastern or African descent.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby Union is a popular team sport in Greymouth, with many local clubs and a strong community following.
Cricket enjoys a good level of participation in Greymouth, with both summer leagues and youth programs available.
Netball is widely played in Greymouth, particularly among women and girls, with various competitions and schools involved.
Football has been growing in popularity in Greymouth, with increasing numbers of clubs and players of all ages.
Given its coastal location, surfing is popular in Greymouth, with local beaches providing good conditions for wave riding.
Athletics, including running, jumping, and throwing events, has a dedicated following in Greymouth, with events held locally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Greymouth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Greymouth is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants and cafes offering plant-based dishes that celebrate local produce.
Visitors with gluten intolerances will find a range of gluten-free choices at various dining establishments, ensuring they can savor the local cuisine without worry.